Neonatal seizures, also known as newborn seizures, are abnormal electrical discharges in the brain of a baby within the first 28 days of life.

It is a condition which manifests as sudden, repetitive, and often subtle changes in behaviour or movements, in parts of the baby such as eye movements, muscle twitching, or changes in breathing pattern.

These seizures can be a sign of a serious underlying condition which require prompt medical attention.

This GhanaWeb article provides some insights on Newborn seizures, causes and treatment.

What are Newborn seizures?

Neonatal or newborn seizures are characterised by abnormal, paroxysmal, and repetitive electrical activity in the brain of a newborn.

Newborn or neonatal seizures happen when a baby’s brain has unusual bursts of electrical activity. This can cause strange movements or behaviour.

According to Baby Nelson in Illustrated Paediatrics these seizures usually happen in the first 28 days of life and may be a sign of a medical problem that needs attention.

What Causes Seizures in Newborns?

There are several reasons why a baby might have seizures, including:
1. Lack of oxygen at birth
This is the most common cause of neonatal seizures. It could happen if the baby had trouble breathing during or right after delivery.
2. Infections
Serious illnesses like meningitis (brain infection), sepsis (blood infection), or infections passed from the mother before birth (like rubella or herpes).
3. Low blood sugar or minerals
Babies need the right balance of sugar, calcium, sodium, and magnesium. If these are too low, it can trigger seizures.
4. Exposure to drugs
Babies born to mothers who used certain medicines or drugs (like opioids) may go through withdrawal, which can cause seizures.
5. Severe jaundice
Very high levels of a yellow pigment (bilirubin) in the baby’s blood can damage the brain and cause seizures.

What does this condition in a newborn look like?

Seizures in babies are often not like the big shaking episodes seen in older children. They can be very subtle. Watch for signs like:
• Eye-rolling or blinking a lot
• Lip smacking, chewing, or sucking motions
• Stiff arms or legs
• Jerky movements in one arm or leg
• Breathing pauses (baby suddenly stops breathing for a few seconds)

If you notice any of these signs, speak to a doctor immediately.

How are seizures diagnosed?
Doctors will:
• Observe the baby closely
• Do a brain test called an EEG to check brain activity
• Test the baby’s blood and fluids
• Use imaging (like an MRI or ultrasound) to look inside the baby’s brain

How are they treated?

1. Stabilise the baby:
Make sure the baby is breathing well, and their heart is working properly
Correct any low sugar or mineral levels
2. Medicines:
Doctors may give seizure medicines to stop the seizures
3. Treat the cause:

Antibiotics for infections

Cooling therapy (lowering the baby’s body temperature) if there was oxygen loss
Special treatments for metabolic or brain conditions

Will my baby be, okay?

It depends on what caused the seizures and how quickly treatment started. Some babies recover fully, while others may need long-term support. Early treatment gives your baby the best chance for a healthy future.

Key Takeaway

If a newborn shows unusual movements or behaviour, it’s important to get medical help right away. Seizures are often a symptom of a deeper problem, and quick action can make a big difference.

MRA/VPO

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